Former England defender Ashley Cole has revealed that a lack of head coach opportunities in his home country led him to take his first senior managerial role with Italian Serie B side Cesena, claiming he felt "discouraged" by the English football system.
Cole, who earned 107 caps for England and enjoyed a storied playing career with Arsenal, Chelsea, and Roma, has spent nearly seven years building his coaching credentials as an assistant under managers like Frank Lampard, Wayne Rooney, and Lee Carsley. Despite this apprenticeship, he found English clubs reluctant to offer him a top job, often citing his lack of experience as a head coach.
"I was getting kind of discouraged by a lack of opportunities, from some clubs in England I spoke to," Cole told BBC Sport. "They like to throw the 'you don't have experience' line. And I'm like, I get what you're saying, I agree—but how am I going to get experience? That's the battle you have to fight as a number two for six or seven years—you have to take a leap of faith, but a club also has to take a leap of faith."
The 43-year-old expressed gratitude to Cesena for taking that chance, noting the significance of his appointment as a black English coach in Italy. "I don't think there are too many black English coaches working in Italy, so yes, it is a massive leap of faith from them and I'm very proud to be here," he said. "It is a great place to be and to start. I'm glad I'm back. We're going to do something different—a bit special."
Cole's return to Italy, where he played for Roma from 2014 to 2016, has been smoothed by his personal connections, including his wife Sharon Canu, who is from Rome. He has embraced the local culture, from the region's famed culinary offerings like parmigiano reggiano and prosciutto di Parma to adapting to being called "Mister"—the traditional title for managers in Italian football.
Despite his illustrious playing career, Cole has maintained a humble approach at Cesena, emphasizing teamwork and a hands-on attitude. "I don't see myself above anyone at this club," he stated. "Of course I have to be the leader of the group, but I'll pick up a cone." This down-to-earth demeanor has already impressed local staff, who noted his willingness to help with training equipment—a trait they find uncommon for a former star of his caliber.
As Cole settles into his new role, he views the move as a fresh start and an opportunity to prove himself in a different footballing environment, far from the barriers he faced in England.